Texas Senate Passes School Voucher Legislation

The bill will now head to the Texas House

February 5, 2025 – The Texas Senate has passed a bill that allocates $1 billion in tax dollars to support private school tuition. The legislation, approved along largely party-line votes, aims to provide families with more educational options by easing the financial burden of private schooling. Proponents argue that this initiative will empower parents to choose the best learning environments for their children, potentially leading to improved educational outcomes and fostering healthy competition among schools. They contend that increased school choice can drive innovation and efficiency in the education system, while also addressing specific needs that traditional public schools may not fully meet.

“The Texas Senate’s passage of SB 2 is the biggest launch of any universal school choice program in American history, with $1 billion in funding for 100,000 students,” Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said in a statement Wednesday night.

Critics, however, express concerns that redirecting such a significant amount of public funds to private education could exacerbate existing inequalities in the state’s education system. Opponents argue that the bill risks diverting essential resources away from public schools, potentially undermining the quality of education for students who rely on them. They also worry about the long-term implications of using taxpayer money for private school tuition, fearing it may weaken the commitment to strengthening public education. As the bill now moves to the next stage in the legislative process, stakeholders on both sides continue to debate its potential impact on Texas’s diverse educational landscape.

If passed, students will receive $2,000 a year. If they enroll at an accredited private school, they will get $10,000 a year. Students with disabilities will receive $11,500 each year.